Superman III Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Superman gets a nicotine patch made of Kryptonite, turns into a jerk, and fights himself in a junkyard before battling a supercomputer with a fire extinguisher, all while Richard Pryor does accounting fraud.

🍿 Superman III: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Clark’s Return to Smallville

Clark Kent returns to Smallville for his high school reunion, reconnecting with his childhood sweetheart, Lana Lang. Meanwhile, in Metropolis, unemployed computer genius Gus Gorman discovers his talent for programming and is hired by the wealthy Ross Webster. Webster plans to use Gus’s skills to control the world’s economy, starting by manipulating the coffee crop in Colombia.

The Creation of Synthetic Kryptonite

Webster, frustrated by Superman’s interference, tasks Gus with creating Kryptonite. Unable to identify one crucial element, Gus improvises by substituting it with tar. The resulting synthetic Kryptonite doesn’t kill Superman but alters his personality, turning him selfish and destructive. This leads to Superman performing bizarre and harmful actions, such as straightening the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Superman’s Descent into Darkness

As Superman’s morality erodes, he becomes increasingly self-centered and neglectful of his duties. This descent culminates in a physical and mental breakdown, leading to a dramatic split within himself. He separates into two distinct entities: the corrupted, ‘evil’ Superman and the virtuous Clark Kent. The two engage in a symbolic battle in a junkyard to determine the fate of Superman’s soul.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Superman (Christopher Reeve): The iconic superhero faces a moral crisis as he battles the corrupting influence of synthetic kryptonite.
• Gus Gorman (Richard Pryor): A naturally gifted but ethically challenged computer programmer whose skills are exploited for nefarious purposes.
• Ross Webster (Robert Vaughn): A ruthless businessman who uses technology to try and control the world’s resources and destroy Superman.
• Lana Lang (Annette O’Toole): Clark Kent’s childhood sweetheart who rekindles a relationship with him during his high school reunion.
• Lois Lane (Margot Kidder): A determined journalist and Superman’s love interest, whose role is limited due to circumstances during production.
• Vera (Annie Ross): Ross Webster’s sister who is transformed into a cyborg by the self-aware supercomputer.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Ross Webster: “Never underestimate the power of computers.” – Webster emphasizes the potential of computer technology as a tool for world domination.
• Superman: “I hope you don’t expect me to save you… because I don’t do that anymore!” – Said by the ‘evil’ Superman to Lorelei, showcasing his corrupted and selfish persona.
• Gus Gorman: “Hey, it was a proportional response. They sent an army of killer satellites, I sent a tornado. It’s fair!” – Gus justifying his actions to create a tornado to destroy Columbia’s coffee crop.
• Ross Webster: “I ask you to kill Superman, and you’re telling me you couldn’t even do that one, simple thing.” – Webster expresses his frustration with Gus’s failure to eliminate Superman.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $39,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $59,950,623
• Worldwide Gross: $80,250,623

💥 Superman III Reviews

Personal Review

I remember watching this as a kid and being so confused by evil Superman. The junkyard fight scene was epic, and seeing Christopher Reeve play two different sides of the same character was amazing. Richard Pryor’s comedy was hit or miss, but overall, I found it to be a fun and quirky take on Superman, even if it wasn’t perfect. The supercomputer was hilariously bad, but I loved how they used the acid to beat it!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Christopher Reeve’s Superman”
  • “Viewers interested in 1980s superhero films”
  • “Those who enjoy lighthearted, comedic superhero movies”
  • “Richard Pryor fans”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Mild violence”
  • “Suggestive humor”
  • “Some scenes may be intense for younger viewers”

Professional Reviews

• FandomWire: “While *Superman III* may not reach the heights of its predecessors, it still provides an entertaining comic book adventure. Reeve shines as Superman, and the addition of Pryor brings a comedic element that, while sometimes misplaced, adds a unique flavor. The special effects remain impressive, and the junkyard fight scene stands out as a highlight.
• KoiMoi: “*Superman III* introduces a darker side to the Man of Steel as he battles synthetic kryptonite and his own inner demons. While some find Pryor’s comedic relief distracting, Reeve’s performance and the exploration of Superman’s vulnerabilities make this film a worthwhile watch.
• IMDB: “Despite its flaws, including uneven pacing and a weaker plot, Superman III offers moments of entertainment. Reeve’s portrayal of Superman remains captivating, and the visual effects are decent for their time. However, the overreliance on comedy and the absence of key characters like Lex Luthor detract from the overall experience.

Audience Reactions

The junkyard fight between Superman and Clark Kent remains a memorable and iconic scene.: Viewers appreciate Reeve’s performance and his portrayal of Superman’s internal struggle.

Pryor’s comedic presence brings a lighthearted and entertaining element to the film.: Fans find the special effects impressive and the action sequences enjoyable, despite the movie’s flaws.

Overall Consensus: Superman III is a divisive entry in the series, with mixed reactions to its comedic tone and plot, but it is still considered a nostalgic and entertaining movie for some fans.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “After Margot Kidder criticized the firing of Richard Donner, her role was significantly reduced to only a few lines and minimal screen time.”
• “The opening slapstick sequence was intended to set a comedic tone, a departure from the previous films’ more serious approach.”
• “Annette O’Toole, who played Lana Lang, later played Martha Kent, Clark’s mother, in the TV series Smallville.”

🖥️ How to Watch Superman III?

Superman III is available for rent or purchase on various digital platforms such as Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check your local listings for possible streaming options or cable on-demand availability. Physical copies on DVD and Blu-ray are also widely available for purchase through online retailers like Amazon.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Superman III, you might like these similar films:

• Superman II (1980): Direct sequel featuring Christopher Reeve as Superman facing powerful villains.
• Office Space (1999): Features a similar plot of computer-based embezzlement, inspired by the ‘salami slicing’ technique in Superman III.
• WarGames (1983): Released in the same year, explores the potential dangers of computers and technology, a theme present in Superman III.
• Iron Man 3 (2013): Features a hero facing internal struggles and a corruptible suit, similar to Superman’s exposure to synthetic kryptonite.
• RoboCop (1987): Explores the themes of technology taking over humanity, with a character being transformed into a cyborg similar to Vera in Superman III.

🛒 Superman III Related Products

• Superman: The Christopher Reeve Collection (Blu-ray): Relive the adventures of Superman with this complete collection featuring all four films starring Christopher Reeve. Experience the magic, action, and heart of the series in stunning high definition.
• DC Collectibles Superman Action Figure: Add this detailed Superman action figure to your collection! Featuring multiple points of articulation and accessories, this figure captures the iconic look of Christopher Reeve as the Man of Steel.
• Superman: The Man of Steel – Board Game: Immerse yourself in the world of Superman with this exciting board game! Battle villains, save Metropolis, and become the ultimate superhero in this strategic and engaging tabletop adventure.
• Superman Logo T-Shirt: Show your love for Superman with this classic logo t-shirt! Made from comfortable, high-quality materials, this shirt is perfect for everyday wear and displaying your fandom.

🎧 Soundtrack

Superman III features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Rock On” – performed by Marshall Crenshaw
• “Main Title (Superman III)” – performed by Ken Thorne

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

SUPER Sneeze 😀 #shorts #superman

Remember that time Superman sneezed with incredible force in Superman III? It’s a short but hilarious moment that you have to see!

Evil Superman vs Clark Kent [Part 2] | Superman 3

Ever wondered what it’s like when Superman fights himself? Check out this awesome scene from Superman III where Clark Kent battles his evil alter ego! It’s kinda wild, ngl.

Superman III – ship repair scene – John Williams LSO music

Did you know some fans prefer the Superman III oil tanker repair scene with John Williams’ music? Give it a listen and see if you agree that it makes the scene even better!

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